Youth Counselor at Woodward Academy – Woodward, Iowa

Job description:

Youth Counselor $1,000 Sign-On Bonus | Make a Difference Every Day

Location: On-site in Woodward, Iowa - Full-Time Only Available

About the Role and Woodward Academy

Do you want to join a team-oriented organization that is committed to the care, treatment and well-being of youth and families? Since 1995, Woodward Academy has led the industry in providing high quality care and treatment in Iowa. Each day, our staff provide a safe, structured and therapeutic environment that prepare youth to learn, to develop and to apply skills that help them create a better future for themselves and for their families.

Our commitment to our residents and staff is to provide a healthy environment to heal and to learn. Staff receive comprehensive training in how to help youth navigate complex trauma, in how to de-escalate crises using leading patient safety models and how to prepare youth for the future.

Woodward Academy believes that responsible organizations support the physical, psychological, emotional and moral needs of their staff, including through providing comprehensive employee benefit options. We are proud to provide competitive and affordable employee benefits that are customizable to each employee’s needs.

Come join our team today!

Pay & Benefits

Full-Time: $19.00–$20.00/hour

Sign-On Bonus: $1,000 for Full-Time team members

Training: Fully paid; all safety and skill-based training provided

Full-Time schedules start at:

• 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM - Including weekends

Join Our Team

Are you someone who thrives on teamwork, leads with empathy, and believes in the power of positive influence? Join a mission-driven organization where collaboration, support, and growth are at the heart of what we do. As a Youth Counselor, you’ll help create a safe, engaging, and empowering environment for youth to build confidence, life skills, and brighter futures.

What You’ll Do

• Build strong, positive relationships with youth through daily interactions and structured activities
• Model teamwork, accountability, and respect to encourage positive behaviors
• Collaborate with peers to maintain a supportive and safe environment
• Guide youth through recreational, vocational, and life-skill development programs
• Respond calmly and effectively in moments of crisis, providing reassurance and direction
• Accurately complete required reports and documentation to support ongoing care

What You Bring and requirements

• A high school diploma or equivalent
• A team-focused mindset and strong communication skills
• The ability to stay calm and confident in challenging situations
• Must be able to read, write, hear and speak in English
• Reliable transportation to the worksite
• Ability to pass a full background check, including fingerprinting
• Emotionally and physically able to perform physical escorts and/or restraints of the students to ensure a safe and secure environment

Full-Time Employee Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(k) retirement program
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement and student loan assistance
• Paid time off, holiday pay, and your birthday off (paid)
• Additional 4 weeks paid leave after 7 years of service and every 5 years thereafter
• Free on-site meals and 24/7 gym access
• Wellness Program
• Employee Assistance Program
• Parental leave
• DailyPay – Access your earnings before payday
• Coaching opportunities
• Housing assistance available
• Supplemental insurance
• Years of service recognition

Why You’ll Love It Here

You won’t do this work alone. You’ll be part of a trauma responsive team that is supportive, hands-on that celebrates wins, backs each other up, and works together to change lives for the better.

Job Type: Full-time